Happy ending for some of the pets bought online as Battersea Dogs and Cats Home comes to the rescue

SANDY

Ten-month-old Sandy's previous owners had bought her from an advert on social media with no knowledge of her background or condition. It turned out she had severe hip dysplasia and her new owns could not afford the medical bills. They brought her to Battersea, where staff took her in and cared for her. Thanks to careful assessment and pain management from our veterinary team, we managed to find the right home for Sandy, where she would receive lots of mental stimulation to keep her young brain active. Her new owners were given a full assessment and sat down with our vets to talk about what Sandy's future may hold.

BRENT

This handsome two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier's owner bought him from a major selling site from an advert that said he was wonderful with children. After just a couple of days in his home, Brent became frightened and reacted badly to the children, baring his teeth, so he was brought to Battersea. Our expert behaviourists worked with Brent and found he was a wonderful and gentle dog with a sensitive side. Based on his behaviour and history, we determined the best home for him would be an adult-only household and he found a loving new home where he is flourishing.

MAGNUS

Beautiful labrador Magnus was bought online as a puppy. Unfortunately, his owners didn't take into account how much work and commitment a puppy – especially an energetic breed like a Lab – needs and brought him to Battersea a few months later when they could no longer cope. An energetic, clever and responsive boy, Magnus caught the eye of Battersea's Working Dogs team and he was rehomed to an outlet where he would live in a family home but his search skills would be used as a working dog.

MAILO

Mailo, an 18-month-old Jack Russell Terrier, was bought online after his scruffy good looks caught the eye of his new owner. Unfortunately, they admitted they had not researched his breed – JRTs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy – and they didn't have the time to care for him. Because of all the changes he's been through at a young age, Mailo was a sensitive soul and Battersea Old Windsor's staff spent a while getting to know him. He found a loving new home with a family with lots of experience of Jack Russells and their quirks.

BANDIT

Bandit is a Newfoundland Akita cross – two large breeds – and was advertised for free on a major selling site. He was snapped up but brought into Battersea's Brands Hatch site the very next day after his new owners quickly realised they had taken on more than they could handle. A lovely and energetic boy, Bandit requires a special and experienced home. Battersea's expert staff cared for Bandit for more than three months before we found the right home for him.

RUBY

Beautiful Ruby was bought online as a kitten. Now her owners are moving abroad and can't take her with them. She wasn't at Battersea long before she was snapped up by new owners, who have reported back that she is settling well.